Decision on graveyard expansion onto golf course next week

Bracknell: A plan to expand Easthampstead Park Crematorium is on the table. The proposal involves using the pitch and putt area at Downshire Golf Complex. The planning committee will review it next week.

Last November, council leaders decided to use this land. They warned that burial spaces would run out by mid-2025. This change would eliminate the 9-hole pitch and putt, which serves over 150 kids weekly.

The two-hectare area could create 1,173 full plots, plus additional spaces for Muslim burials and cremated remains. This could provide burial space for 25 to 30 more years.

Bracknell Forest Council plans to build a new road for access to the graves. However, this would mean removing some hedges. So far, 407 residents have objected, fearing the loss of playing space for local sports.

Many worry this could lead to more golf course land being taken in the future. Others are concerned about the impact on young and disabled golfers who use the pitch and putt area.

Bracknell Town Council wants the borough council to find another site for the pitch and putt. Crowthorne Parish Council has also objected to the plan.

Planning law usually protects leisure land from being converted unless replaced by better facilities. However, 27 letters of support have been sent to the council, highlighting the need for burial space for the Muslim community.

Last year, council leaders stated there was no alternative to using the golf complex. They noted that other potential sites were either unviable or not owned by the council.

Paul Bidwell, a cabinet member, acknowledged the emotional nature of the plans but emphasized the lack of alternatives. Council leader Mary Temperton mentioned the importance of the space for living relatives as well.

A decision on the planning approval will be made on Thursday, February 13, before the Cabinet makes a final decision.